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Since its birth in 1994, maharishi has evolved into one of the UK’s most influential designer labels, offering men’s, women’s and children’s collections available from exclusive fashion retailers worldwide. Founded by (creative director) Hardy Blechman, maharishi carries a strong ethos of respect for nature while utilising the latest technology.
Blechman, whose former experience lay in the international military and industrial clothing surplus trade, started maharishi by producing hemp and other natural fibre clothing as well as recycling workwear and military surplus. In fact, his work in the field of natural fibres helped them to gain wider acceptance among larger commercial fashion retailers. In 1995, Blechman designed and launched Snopants® – an original design concept with unique detailing that became a significant style statement and the label’s signature. Arena Homme Plus described them in their Millennium round-up as “the most copied pants of the decade” and into the 21st century Snopants® have formed the basis of the evolution of a new style of dressing.
By 1999, the label was producing comprehensive collections for men, women and children in which innovative design, comfort and functional detail form the common thread. In 2000, maharishi was awarded ‘Streetwear Designer of the Year’ at the British Fashion Council Awards. Today, owing to its commercial yet still credible status, it stands as one of the top key brands in men’s, women’s and children’s fashion in the UK’s leading department stores – Selfridges, Harrods and Harvey Nichols. Sales worldwide in over 500 designer fashion stores in 35 countries continue to grow.
Despite great commercial growth and a high media profile, maharishi remains a privately owned company, with its ethos and identity truly intact. 2001 saw the launch of mhi, a second line that has etched a distinct identity with strong graphics and themes, while maintaining the
same level of quality and detailing that maharishi is famous for. mhi collections integrate limited edition prints and embroideries of graphic work
by guest artists such as graffiti legend Futura 2000, Kaws, RoStarr and Sharp. Each season, Blechman collaborates with new talent on artwork.
The high concept flagship store located at 19 Floral Street, Covent Garden, London opened in September 2001. Designed by architect François Scali, the space cleverly achieves a combination of nature and technology. In addition to clothing collections, the store offers reference and art books alongside rare Japanese toys. The store also houses the Churchill Gallery, where exhibitions are staged of works by maharishi collaborators and guest artists. Henry Chalfant, legendary graffiti archivist (author of Subway Art, Spraycan Art and the documentary Style Wars), staged his first UK exhibition here.
maharishi prides itself on gaining a respected reputation for not conforming to mainstream fashion trends, placing emphasis on its own points of inspiration and the natural progression of excellent quality, perfect fit and original design. The company continues to develop and expand with a positive attitude, open mind and unique approach, firmly positioning it as one of the most influential and progressive international brands around.